IT'S officially Christmas in Glasgow ...

as the city gears up for tonight's festive lights switch-on.

And Lord Provost Sadie Docherty scaled the heights of George Square's giant Christmas tree to add the final touches.

Mrs Docherty will be joined by Olympic Bronze medallist Beth Tweddle as they flick the switch that turns George Square into a winter wonderland.

More than 15,000 people will gather to help celebrate one of the most popular events in the Glasgow calendar.

The Lord Provost braved the cold to add a last touch of sparkle to the 55ft spruce tree, the centre piece of Glasgow's Christmas decorations.

She said: "I am very much looking forward the magic moment when George Square is transformed into an amazing Winter Wonderland.

"For me there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit."

Gates will open at 5pm with Clyde 1 taking to the stage at 6pm to entertain the audience with an hour-long festive programme of music, comedy and Christmas banter.

Party-goers will be invited to warm up their vocal chords by taking part in a giant Christmas sing-a-long, featuring favourite festive tunes.

The official switch on of the Christmas lights, at 7pm, will be followed by a spectacular 10 minute firework display from the roof of the City Chambers.

The event is ticket only, and everyone will need their tickets to access the square.

Joining the fun will be Alan Clark and his family from East Kilbride, who won four tickets in the Evening Times competition to see the lights switch on.

He also won dinner and an overnight stay at the Millennium Hotel.

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk